After Barcelona's 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal on Thursday, manager Xavi Hernandez criticized his team for not being able to control the ball.

Xavi added that despite losing the first leg to Barcelona, Real Madrid is still the favorite to advance to the Copa del Rey final.

Barcelona held a slim lead over Real Madrid after the first leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal matchup thanks to an own goal by Eder Militao at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Xavi said, “We have not been able to keep the ball." It has been difficult for us to win duels to have possession, but we have defended very well. We have fought until the end, and that is very positive.

“The 0-1 gives us a certain advantage, but we are going to have to compete very well against a very strong Real Madrid side." I still see Madrid as a favorite.”

The second leg of the semi-final will take place in the first week of April at Camp Nou.